This quote is a profound exploration of the different stages of human cognition and perception. “Thinking is more interesting than knowing” suggests that the process of formulating ideas, questioning, and finding solutions is more engaging than merely having knowledge. Knowledge is static, it’s a fact or a piece of information that we possess. On the other hand, thinking is dynamic, it’s an active process that involves questioning what we know, challenging our assumptions, and creating new ideas.

“But less interesting than looking” implies that observation or experiencing something firsthand is even more captivating than thinking. Looking or observing allows us to gather raw data from our surroundings, which we can then process and analyze. It’s an active engagement with the world, a raw encounter with reality that’s direct and unfiltered. It’s through looking that we gather new information, which then becomes the basis for our thinking and knowing.

In today’s fast-paced, information-driven world, this quote holds a significant relevance. We are often overwhelmed with information and knowledge, but it’s critical to take a step back, observe, think, and then draw our conclusions rather than accepting everything at face value. This is particularly applicable in the era of ‘fake news’ where discerning the truth requires careful observation and critical thinking.

From a personal development perspective, the quote encourages us to be active learners and observers. It reminds us that growth comes from engaging with the world, questioning what we know, and constantly seeking out new experiences and information. Applying this idea in our lives might mean spending more time in nature, engaging in new experiences, questioning our assumptions, or simply taking the time to observe and reflect on our surroundings. It’s about valifying the process of learning and understanding, not just the end result of knowing.